Annatto seed growers pitch for government support

Cultivated on nearly 10,000 acres, these seeds are the world’s second most important natural colourant after caramel. Thanks to impressive laboratory tests confirming seed quality and organic farming practices, they are in high demand across the European Union and the Middle East. However, the absence of government-backed organic certification, a proper procurement mechanism, and adequate storage facilities is forcing farmers to sell their produce at throwaway prices to middlemen, writes T. Appalanaidu.

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